How to Care for a Hummingbird Feeder

Hummingbirds are fascinating to watch, and one of the best places to watch them is at a hummingbird feeder. Flower nectar makes up 90 percent of their diets, according to the National Audubon Society. But in this modern era of over-construction and deforestation, hummingbirds have a difficult time finding enough flowers to survive. Clean, well-positioned hummingbird feeders can help keep these exquisite creatures alive.

Granulated white sugar
Scrub brush
White vinegar

Instructions

- 1
  Find an ideal shady location for hummingbird feeder or feeders. Hang away from windows to keep birds from flying directly into the glass. If possible, use more than one hummingbird feeder in a yard. Male hummingbirds are extremely territorial and will attack any other male hummingbird from drinking.
- 2
  Make artificial nectar to fill the feeders. Mix 1 part granulated white sugar in 4 parts water. Bring to a boil, then allow to cool. Refrigerate any extra nectar. Replace when it turns cloudy or at least once a week in cool weather and twice a week in warm weather. The artificial nectar grows mold if not changed frequently. Hummingbirds can become sick and die from drinking spoiled nectar.
- 3
  Clean feeders at least once a week. Use a scrub brush only for hummingbird feeders so it does have any traces of soap or bleach on it. Mix 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts water. Use this mixture to clean the feeder. Soak it three times in warm water before refilling with nectar.

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